Fisherfolk and environmental advocates are calling on Raphael Lotilla, the newly appointed Environment Secretary, to halt the floating solar power project in Laguna. They say the project will negatively affect the livelihood of more than 8,000 small-scale fisherfolk and coastal residents.

Save Laguna Lake Movement (SLLM) convener Chris Baysa said “There is widespread opposition from affected fisherfolk and residents to the imminent floating solar project that will cover traditional fishing grounds. The new DENR secretary should seriously consider the said project and thoroughly scrutinize its environmental impact.”

They also plan to send the new leadership of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) a letter requesting a dialogue where they can present the basis of their opposition.

Singapore based company Blue Leaf and Sun Asia is a partner in the project. The project aims to cover 2,000 hectares of Laguna de Bay in the areas of Calamba, Cabuyao, Santa Rosa Bay, and Victoria in the province of Laguna.

ACEN Corp, a company owned by the Ayala bourgeoisie, is also a partner in the project and has already signed an agreement with the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) to lease 800 hectares of the lake.

According to Pamalakaya, the project is being pursued by the LLDA despite the absence of legitimate consultation with the affected communities.